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Geordies Head to Spanish Islands in Search of Sun

With the English summer having proven to be a washout once again, it seems that the residents of Newcastle are heading to the Spanish islands to soak up the sun.

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM--(Marketwire - July 13, 2012) - The top three destinations for people flying from Newcastle Airport this year have been Tenerife South, Palma de Mallorca and Las Palmas in Gran Canaria, according to a survey by Holiday Hypermarket1.

It's easy to see why these holiday hotspots are so popular. Lying off the North Coast of Africa, the Canary Islands, with year-round sunshine guaranteed and their iconic landscape of black volcanic sand melting into azure waters in tree-lined cities, are popular with couples and families alike. With great deals available on Gran Canaria holidays from Monarch and flights leaving several times a week, it's clear why they are being snapped up by Geordies in the know.

Those seeking A-list style clubbing, sampling foam and fiesta parties, then spending the day recovering on golden sand, find their destination of choice in Mallorca. The exotic combination of sun, sea and sand also appeals to those looking to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life in Newcastle.

With guaranteed sunshine at any time and a mild climate, Gran Canaria is proving to be a favourite for many. The island's miles of golden sandy beaches allow for hours of relaxing sunbathing. Those in need of refreshment only have a short walk to its crystal clear waters, or alternatively can stroll to one of the island's many beachfront bars.

Shopaholics can take advantage of the great duty-free bargains to be had in the shops lining Gran Canaria's boulevards. And holidaymakers missing the Geordie nightlife can dance the night away in one of the cosmopolitan nightclubs to be found in Playa des Inglés.

Families looking for a more relaxing break should head to the seclusion of San Augustin. Its picturesque whitewashed apartments and villas, clustered around iconic black-sand beaches, are a perfect destination for a cheap getaway. Surfers and sunbathers looking for warmer waters than the South Shields sea have found a haven at the rocky Playa de las Mujeres, in the island's west.

Foodies can indulge in delicious fresh fish in one of the resort's restaurants, having worked up an appetite hiking in the famous sand dunes found at Masapalomas, situated at the south of the island. So, with plenty of hot deals still available for 2012, canny holidaymakers should follow the Geordies' lead and book their getaway without delay.